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New York Knicks: 5 reasons Kristaps Porzingis will be an All-Star in 2017-18

By Maxwell Ogden

TARRYTOWN, NY - September 25: Kristaps Porzingis #6 of the New York Knicks poses for a portrait during Media Day on September 25, 2017 at the Knicks Practice Center in Tarrytown, New York. Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Steven Freeman/NBAE via Getty Images)
TARRYTOWN, NY - September 25: Kristaps Porzingis #6 of the New York Knicks poses for a portrait during Media Day on September 25, 2017 at the Knicks Practice Center in Tarrytown, New York. Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Steven Freeman/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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PORTLAND, OR – MARCH 23: Kristaps Porzingis #6 of the New York Knicks handles the ball against the Portland Trail Blazers on March 23, 2017 at the Moda Center in Portland, Oregon. Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Sam Forencich/NBAE via Getty Images)
PORTLAND, OR – MARCH 23: Kristaps Porzingis #6 of the New York Knicks handles the ball against the Portland Trail Blazers on March 23, 2017 at the Moda Center in Portland, Oregon. Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Sam Forencich/NBAE via Getty Images) /

3. Dynamic Offensive Game

Those who don’t watch Kristaps Porzingis don’t quite understand how unique his offensive game truly is. Those who take the time out to keep a close eye on the Latvian phenom know he’s far more than just a stretch big.

As the attention shifts to Porzingis in 2017-18, the talk of whatever flaws may remain will be drowned out by an appreciation of how unique his skill set truly is.

In 2016-17, Porzingis became the tallest player in NBA history to convert at least 100 three-point field goals in a single season. He averaged 18.1 points per game overall, which ranked No. 3 amongst Eastern Conference big men and No. 5 amongst NBA power forwards.

With a stronger frame, a more polished skill set, and a better understanding of his limitations, Porzingis’ scoring should improve in both volume and efficiency.

In addition to scoring at a higher level, Porzingis should be a generally more effective offensive player. He’s learning how much of a strength his size truly is, which translated to improved shooting, post play, and unique driving ability at EuroBasket.

The New York Knicks plan to build the offense around Porzingis, and his success in being a centerpiece would make him a prime All-Star candidate.

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